Assumption Parish sinkhole poses no new threat

BAYOU CORNE (AP) — A new video showing trees being swallowed by the sinkhole in Assumption Parish has brought nationwide attention to the issue.

Though the video has brought attention to the hole, which formed in August 2012, state officials say the activity seen in the video is nothing new and expected.

"Although the footage reinforces the seriousness of the evolving situation in the area and the need to hold Texas Brine accountable, it does not represent a new threat to public safety in the area," a state Department of Natural Resources news release states.

When the sinkhole first formed, it encompassed less than nine acres, but it has grown to more than 24 acres.

State officials tell The Courier (http://bit.ly/14UMXje) this growth is expected as the ground below continues to settle. The sinkhole formed when an underground salt cavern collapsed.